Cottonwood Canyon Road in Utah: adventure and beauty, not for everyone

Cottonwood Canyon Road is a very scenic drive located in Kane County, in the US state of Utah. Do not attempt this trail if there is rain in the forecast or if it has recently rained.

Cottonwood Canyon Road

Where is Cottonwood Canyon Road?

The road runs through Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, in the southern part of Utah, near the Arizona border, to the north of Page.

How long is Cottonwood Canyon Road in Utah?

The road, also known as K7000 and Cottonwood Canyons Scenic Backway, is 74km (46 miles) one way and connects the town of Cannonville with Highway 89, just west of Big Water. It was originally constructed as a maintenance road for power lines.

Is Cottonwood Canyon open?

The road is open all year round (during dry seasons) and totally impassable when wet, even in a 4×4. It was originally constructed as a maintenance road for power lines following the canyon.

Is Cottonwood Canyon Road paved?

The road is mostly unpaved, but generally doable for a hardy 2WD car, although more comfortable in a 4x4. In the spring or after a particularly significant rainstorm, it can become muddy and impassable even for high-clearance SUVs. The road is paved for 9 miles between Cannonville and the turnoff to Kodachrome Basin State Park. Thereafter, the road is graded dirt with an underlying clay base making it impassable when wet.

How long does it take to drive Cottonwood Canyon Road?

Allow 2 hours to complete the drive. But this depends on how often you stop to take photos or enjoy the views. Inquire about weather and road conditions at the nearby Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument Visitor Center in Cannonville to be prepared. There are no services available along the route except at Cannonville on the northern end. It is recommended to carry food, extra water, and emergency supplies before traveling this road. This route should be avoided if significant rain or accumulating snow is in the forecast, and always check road conditions before setting out.

Is Cottonwood Canyon Road dangerous?

Do not attempt this trail if there is rain in the forecast or if it has recently rained. Never suitable for RVs or trailers. In recent years, the level of maintenance has lessened, resulting in the surface being rough in some places. Many sections traverse ancient seabed deposits of mudstone, silt, and shale. When wet, the clay surface becomes exceptionally slick, rendering even four-wheel drive useless. Additionally, many drainages cross the road in various locations, and these may wash out during periodic flash flooding, particularly during summer thunderstorms. Even in dry weather, the road can be muddy to the point of being impassable in low areas.
Pic: Shannon Bushman